Iran is a country rich in culture and history, and one of the things that makes it unique is the dress code of its people. According to Iranian law, all women are required to wear Islamic hijab. However, they are very modest in picking their Veil or Hijab. On your arrival, you may be shocked by the way how Iranian clothing is stylish. Women usually take great care of how they look, and they wear clothes with a great sense of style.
In this article, we will discuss the dress code for both men and women in Iran, what to wear in Iran in winter, and what to expect when visiting mosques and holy shrines.
Dress Code for Women in Iran
Women in Iran must always cover their head with a scarf and wear a long coat (called mantua in Farsi) over their regular clothes. It’s the law, and not only for women, have men also to wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts too. As Iran changed over the years you don’t need to wear socks all the time anymore and your sleeves can also be 3/4 these days.
The scarf should cover the hair and neck, leaving the face visible. The coat should be loose and long, covering the hips and buttocks. It’s important to note that the coat should not be tight-fitting or reveal the body shape.
While the dress code may seem restrictive, it’s important to understand that it’s part of the Iranian culture and should be respected. Women who visit Iran should dress modestly and adhere to the dress code, particularly in public places.
Dress Code for Men in Iran
Men in Iran are also expected to dress modestly. They should wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, particularly in public places. It’s important to note that shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in public places, including restaurants and cafes.
What to Wear in Iran in Winter
If you are wondering what to wear in Iran in winter, the answer is that it’s the same as other times of the year. While you can put a hat on your scarf, it doesn’t mean that you can only wear a hat. It’s important to dress in layers to keep warm, particularly in areas with colder temperatures.
What to Expect When Visiting Mosques and Holy Shrines
While Iran is a conservative country and women need to be fully covered up at all times in public, it doesn’t mean that you need to worry about that. Rules of Iranian clothing are not observed strictly for tourists and foreigners. For instance, don’t worry if your hair is sticking out of the scarf. Apart from a small percentage of older women, most young girls only cover the top of their head.
However, it’s important to note that the only places in Iran that have very strict rules about hijab are the mosques and holy shrines. To enter some of these places, such as Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad or Hazrate Masoumeh Holy Shrine in Qom, you must wear a “Chador”. The chador is a large piece of fabric that covers your entire body from head to toe. You can always find one at the entrance gate.
In conclusion, Iran is a unique and beautiful country that has its own cultural traditions, including the dress code. While it may seem restrictive, it’s important to respect the culture and dress modestly, particularly in public places. However, rules are not strictly observed for tourists and foreigners, so you can still dress comfortably and stylishly. When visiting mosques and holy shrines, it’s important to wear a chador to respect the sanctity of these places.
